Is the upper oil pan on the om617 aluminum? I guess I could put a magnet on it when I go home later and check for myself. That would explain why it stripped so easily.

It's a through hole so i will more than likely attempt a longer bolt and nut as a temporary fix and do the helicoil next time I do an oil change.

When I get it on the lift next week, I will be sure to post the results.

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1984 300TD - der Landstreicher